Science Objective

The CLPS-LIMS instrument is a versatile instrument that has the capability for the sensitive element and isotope analysis of soils and solids in situ. Elements and isotopes with trace element abundances at the level of ppm (parts per million) and for some elements and isotopes even at ppb level can be identified and quantified. The CLPS-LIMS instrument will be used primarily for:

• analyses of the bulk chemical composition of the lunar regolith
• assess the mineralogy of lunar regolith
• grain-by-grain chemical composition analysis of lunar regolith
• address, if applicable, geochronology of regolith material via e.g., Pb/Pb, U/Pb, or Th/Pb systems

Analysing the bulk chemical composition of lunar regolith and its mineralogy enables differences in the chemistry of the soil and regolith to be identified compared to provenances studied in the past, such as those by the Apollo. Due to the Apollo program’s landing sites, chemical composition information is only available for equatorial material. Recent investigations by the Chinese Chang’e mission, which operated on the far side of the Moon, have allowed different rock types, not present in previously collected lunar samples, to be identified. Therefore, CLPS-LIMS chemical analyses will provide new insights into the chemistry of a lunar region that has not previously been studied: the lunar south pole. Grain-by-grain chemical composition analyses will also improve our understanding of the chemical complexity of the landing site and the surrounding area, offering insights into the Moon’s evolution.

The Artemis Science Definition Team (SDT, Artemis III Science Definition Team Report, Document ASA/SP-20205009602 ) report outlines the main seven scientific goals of the Artemis III mission, which are applicable to CS-6 TO as well. The seven top level goals are:

• Science Goal #1: Understanding Planetary Processes
• Science Goal #2: Understanding Character and Origin of Lunar Polar Volatiles
• Science Goal #3: Interpreting the Impact History of the Earth-Moon System
• Science Goal #4: Revealing the Records of the Ancient Sun and Our Astronomical Environment
• Science Goal #5: Observing the universe and the local space environment from a unique location
• Science Goal #6: Conducting Experimental Science in the Lunar Environment
• Science Goal #7: Investigating and Mitigating Exploration Risks

The CLPS-LIMS system will primarily concentrate on the geochemistry of lunar surface soil and regolith material, thereby addressing science goals #1 and #4. This is highly important, as accurate in situ information is required to improve our understanding of the Moon-Earth system and the evolution of our Solar System.